FIRST-PERSON: Reclaiming America’s leadership in global child welfare
As our nation prepares for a new administration, it is impossible to ignore the influence these individuals will have not only on domestic policies but also on the world’s perception of America’s heart and values. The mission of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is one area that offers a profound opportunity for leadership and attention. The department's responsibility to protect the well-being of vulnerable children and families goes far beyond its association with public health. HHS must prioritize child protection.
FIRST-PERSON: Gathering at the Gate – how contextual study transforms Bible reading, application
At every page turn, the Bible introduces us to a culture very different from our own. We read about unfamiliar objects, people groups, customs, and social practices. When we see these things, we have two choices – read on or pause to investigate the context.
FIRST-PERSON: A lament for Los Angeles
Vittorio Ristorante & Pizzeria was a quaint, family-owned neighborhood eatery tucked just off Sunset Boulevard in Pacific Palisades. When my wife and I visit Los Angeles to see our daughter, our trip wasn’t complete without a visit to Vittorio’s. The garlic rolls were divine, the pizzas a culinary masterpiece – and I can taste the chicken parmesan just thinking about it.
FIRST-PERSON: Remember the hostages
Crises abound in our world today. However, few seem to be more troubling and heart-rending than the conflict between Israel and Hamas, especially regarding the hostages that have been killed and those who are still held captive somewhere in the Gaza Strip.
FIRST-PERSON: My Deaf friend now knows that Jesus can calm her fear
When I first got here as a missionary, I learned that people wouldn’t whistle because they fear that might summon a demon.
FIRST-PERSON: Pictures of Peace: A reflection on the New Year’s Day tragedy in New Orleans
Our family carries deep affection for New Orleans. My wife Michele and I moved there as students at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary when we were 25 years old, and we were captured by the city’s hospitality and warmth.
FIRST-PERSON: Personal reflections on former President Jimmy Carter
In 1998, I was invited to visit with Mr. Carter at his home in Plains, Georgia. The invitation came as he placed a call to my office at Union University. I will never forget my assistant walking into my office and saying, there was someone on the phone who said he was Jimmy Carter, and it sounded just like him. Having never met the former president, I picked up the phone and enjoyed a pleasant conversation.
FIRST-PERSON: Life’s 5 great lessons
Psalm 119 teaches us that the word of God is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. The message of the Bible is God’s amazing love for us, that He gave His only Son that whoever believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.
FIRST-PERSON: A word of encouragement from SBC President Clint Pressley
Christmas is here and it seems like a fitting time for me to share what I have seen and heard over the last six months I have been privileged to serve as president of our Southern Baptist Convention. As I have traveled this fall, hearing from and representing Southern Baptists across our nation, it has […]
FIRST-PERSON: A first hand look at the work of Baptists in Ukraine
The first week of December, I had the opportunity to travel to Poland and Ukraine with a delegation of Christian leaders. We met with members of the Ukrainian Parliament, the Rada, who both thanked Southern Baptists for the way our denomination has come alongside the most vulnerable people in a time of war. We also meet with evangelical and Baptist leaders in both countries.
